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George Mason School of Business MBA Programs BlogTue, 03 Mar 2015 17:33:43 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1Six Reasons a Part-Time MBA Isn’t Right for Youhttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2015/01/28/six-reasons-part-time-mba-isnt-right/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2015/01/28/six-reasons-part-time-mba-isnt-right/#commentsWed, 28 Jan 2015 18:51:01 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1472Universities generally offer MBA programs as both part-time MBA or a full-time MBA programs. But with changing market demands, MBA programs have begun to take new shape and new names. Sometimes called a traditional MBA, evening MBA, or professional MBA, these programs are variations on the historic full-time MBA and part-time MBA offerings.

It’s important to understand what your needs are from a program and then to investigate what a program offers regardless of its name. For instance, a Professional MBA is often designed for working professionals and therefore may be completed on a part-time basis, offer evening classes, require more work experience to be accepted or some combination of these options.

Below are six reasons why a part-time MBA may not be the right choice for you and a full-time MBA might be a better option.

1. Takes Too Long

Part-Time MBA programs require a commitment over a longer period of time, on average three or more years. The greatest advantage of a full-time MBA program is that it allows you to complete your degree program as quickly as possible. However, George Mason offers a Professional MBA program that can be completed in as few as 23 months of evening classes, and the Executive MBA program is completed in just 18 months with classes held on Saturdays only.

2. Less Opportunities for Scholarships

In many programs, scholarships, financial aid, and graduate assistantships are often limited to those students pursuing a full-time MBA rather than a part-time MBA. Generally more opportunities for aid are available for full-time MBA programs. Many opportunities for scholarships are available to MBA students at George Mason’s School of Business including those applying to our Professional MBA program.

3. Limited Lasting Connections

In many part-time programs, you generally take only a couple of classes each semester which may make it difficult for you to develop lasting bonds when you only see classmates a few times a week. In a full-time MBA program, you work very closely with a small cohort of students in numerous classes over 18 months to 2 years. This allows you to develop very strong relationships and build your professional network. While you’ll be taking classes just two evenings per week in Mason’s Professional MBA program, the program is delivered on the cohort model. This means you take all required courses with the same group of classmates and can build a strong professional network with them.

4. Fewer Opportunities for Mentorships, Associations, and Career Exploration

In a part-time MBA program, you generally are pulled between your responsibilities in your job as well as your responsibilities in your courses. In a full-time MBA program, you have more time for mentorships with professors or business professionals. In addition, without the demands of a full-time job, you have the flexibility to attend student association meetings, professional programs and events, or other professional groups to network, build relationships and learn more about industries you may want to enter. These give you a chance for career exploration that you may not have at your disposal if you are working full-time and attending classes.

5. Less Time to Get Involved

Part-time MBA students are often limited in the time they can devote to things outside of the classroom. Full-time MBA students are often the ones taking on the leadership in professional student organizations such as the MBA Association. This, however, is not always the case and many part-time MBA students have successfully balanced both career and education demands. It is often said that you get out of your education what you put into it. By taking the time to be involved in the student groups and organizations in your program, you will get more out of your education.

6.Less Time to Apply New Skills to your own Entrepreneurial Endeavors

As a part-time MBA student, time will be your biggest foe. It may seem like there will never be enough of it. Full-time MBA students have the opportunity to spend more time on class projects, and possibly even integrate their coursework with their own personal goals. Assignments for business plans in courses, or capstone projects can be completed using your own personal entrepreneurial goals. The time you put in to your studies can be considered time spent researching and preparing to create your own business. Learn more about the MBA program at George Mason School of Business.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2015/01/28/six-reasons-part-time-mba-isnt-right/feed/0The ROI of a Traditional MBA Degree vs. an Online MBA Degreehttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/22/the-roi-of-a-traditional-mba-degree-vs-an-online-mba-degree/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/22/the-roi-of-a-traditional-mba-degree-vs-an-online-mba-degree/#commentsMon, 22 Dec 2014 14:03:29 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1425Considering an MBA program but not sure if you should go for the traditional MBA degree or an online MBA degree? There are many factors to consider including cost, convenience, learning environment, networking opportunities, career outcomes, degree value, ROI, and MBA program reputation.

Advantages of a Traditional MBA Degree

At George Mason University, we offer a professional MBA program with courses delivered two evenings per week in a classroom setting. It provides an opportunity for face-to face interaction without having to leave your full-time job. The students move through the program in a cohort, a group of peers with similar interests and goals, all pursuing their MBA degree. This cohort provides an expansive professional network for life. The students support each other throughout their experience in the program, learn from one another, and develop strong relationships from spending quality time together both inside and outside the classroom.

If you are someone who needs a classroom environment to focus and maintain the discipline needed to complete the degree, then the traditional MBA degree is the route for you. Face-to-face interaction with faculty members and fellow students drive many to stay on track and succeed.

Consider the different experience you will have enhancing your presentation skills. If this is an area you are looking to improve upon through your MBA program, there is much greater value in standing up in front of a room full of your peers versus presenting to a computer screen in an online environment.

Career results and ROI from the George Mason University traditional MBA program graduates in 2014 at the time of graduation can be seen in the attached info graphic.

Advantages of an Online MBA Degree

There is a lot to be said for the convenience on an online MBA program. We all lead busy lives with jobs, families, and school. For some, the added time it takes to get to class is especially valuable. Maybe you work best early in the morning before the kids are up and the typical day starts. An online MBA degree allows you the flexibility to complete the lectures and work on your own time.

Technology for online MBA programs is advancing allowing more interaction among classmates and increased networking opportunities. This technology improves the networking opportunities and relationships you can form in an online environment.

Often, the cost for an online program can be less than a traditional program. It’s important to conduct a cost benefit analysis when researching the right program for you.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/22/the-roi-of-a-traditional-mba-degree-vs-an-online-mba-degree/feed/0You’ve Been Accepted to an MBA Degree. Now What!?http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/15/youve-accepted-mba-degree-now/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/15/youve-accepted-mba-degree-now/#commentsMon, 15 Dec 2014 19:40:45 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1422It’s a big decision to pursue an MBA degree. The process for researching and applying to business schools can be long and tedious. And the relief at getting accepted is amazing. But preparing for your MBA program doesn’t stop once you’ve cleared the application process.

Here are 6 things to consider as you prepare to enter your MBA program.

How will you make time to study and complete the necessary work each week?

Is your job supportive of this additional commitment? Can your supervisor offer you a more flexible schedule?

Are your family and friends supportive of this endeavor?

Do I have a plan for completing the program? Can I map out a schedule of courses?

Do I have a plan for financing my education throughout the length of the program?

Will my company provide any tuition assistance?

As you progress through the MBA program, consider the following questions:

Have I completed the necessary requirements to graduate?

Have I made the most of my course selection? Is there anything I would still like to take?

Have I met with a career counselor to understand my options and how I can leverage my graduate degree?

How can I update my resume to reflect the value of the MBA?

Have I filed to graduate?

What are my next professional steps after graduation?

Just remember, you may have to make sacrifices for a few years while pursuing your MBA degree. You’ll have less time for friends and family and personal interests. Less money too. But your MBA degree is an investment in yourself and can provide you a lifetime of career success.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/15/youve-accepted-mba-degree-now/feed/08 Questions to Consider When Choosing an MBA Programhttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/09/8-questions-consider-choosing-mba-program/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/09/8-questions-consider-choosing-mba-program/#commentsTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:29:18 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1419There is a lot to think about as you begin to research business schools and graduate business degrees. Once you’ve decided an MBA program is the best graduate degree for you, you’ll need to find a program that fits your academic and professional goals, delivery format, schedule, and the classroom experience you desire.

Some questions for you to consider:

Are you an online learner or do you prefer to be in a classroom setting?

Is a set schedule important to you or would you prefer to go at your own pace?

Is it important to be a part of a cohort that will support you throughout your academic journey and become a strong professional network for you?

Are you on a specific timeline to complete the degree?

Are you interested in a certain concentration or specialization?

How will you make the financial investment required for a graduate degree?

What career services are offered to help you excel and make the most of your degree while in the program as well as when you graduate?

Who can you speak with about the program? Are there current students and alumni willing to share their experiences? Can the faculty provide more in-depth information on the types of content, lecture styles, and assignments?

Your experience researching and applying to MBA programs, whether they be a traditional MBA degree or online MBA degree, will tell you a lot about the experience of being in the program. How easy is it to find information? How responsive and knowledgeable is the staff you contact? Do you have access to talk to students and alumni and do their careers and experiences align with your own?

You will likely find that the curriculum from MBA program to MBA program is relatively similar. But it is the personal attention, the experiential learning opportunities, and the cohort of peers that will truly impact the value you get from an MBA degree.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/12/09/8-questions-consider-choosing-mba-program/feed/0MBA Degree Programs & Social Mediahttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/11/03/mba-degree-programs-social-media/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/11/03/mba-degree-programs-social-media/#commentsMon, 03 Nov 2014 11:27:39 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1402We can now safely say that social media has infiltrated many aspects of everyday life. From sharing personal information such as pictures and good news with family and friends to connecting with employers and posting résumés to connecting with groups, social media provides a unique way to engage with friends, family, colleagues, brands and even schools. Following MBA degree programs on social media is a great way to learn about the programs, engage with MBA staff, and start to build a relationship with your future alma mater.

According to the infographic below, 100% of the nation’s top MBA programs are currently using Facebook to connect with students, followed by 96% using Twitter and 77% on YouTube. 61% of schools use five or more social media tools.

MBA degree programs primarily use social media to recruit new students (94%) and keep in touch with alumni (83%), although 82% also use it for student communication. According to this study, today, 70% believe there is an expectation among applicants that MBA degree programs use social media.

And it doesn’t look like there will be any cut back in social media in the future. 82% of MBA degree program plan to increase their investment in social media in the next year. 48% plan to use blogs in the future.

Tips for prospective students and current students: If you are not yet connected, don’t waste any time. Check out the social media communications tools at your school or whichever schools you are considering to make sure you are receiving all communications about the many opportunities and events happening.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/11/03/mba-degree-programs-social-media/feed/0The Rise of Online MBA Programshttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/28/rise-online-mba-programs/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/28/rise-online-mba-programs/#commentsTue, 28 Oct 2014 10:24:35 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1389It seems that each day we try to squeeze more and more into the 24 hours available. Less and less time for relaxation and more and more time connecting, doing, and achieving. In a time where “time” has become one of the most valuable assets in our lives, finding ways to save time while continuing to progress toward personal and professional goals are becoming very popular. Online MBA programs can be one of these time savers.

The infographic below highlights the growing demand for online MBA programs. According to this graphic, more than 6.7 million students are currently enrolled in online education. 77% of academic leaders claim online learning is of equal quality or better than face-to-face learning.

Taking courses in the small amounts of time you have between jobs, kids and other responsibilities makes sense for some individuals while others prefer the “traditional” in-class learning environment and the break from other responsibilities that dedicated classtime provides.

George Mason’s School of Business offers an online Executive MBA degree program for business professionals with at least eight years of professional experience. The Executive MBA can be completed fully online or in a hybrid (in-class and some online courses) format. U.S. News & World Report ranked Mason’s online Executive MBA degree program #75 on the “Best Online Graduate Business Program” list and Mason’s MBA degree program #68 on the “Best Part-time MBA” list. The Mason MBA program is not currently offered online (EMBA only offered online).

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/28/rise-online-mba-programs/feed/0Top Six Databases for Company Researchhttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/13/top-six-databases-company-research/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/13/top-six-databases-company-research/#commentsMon, 13 Oct 2014 19:19:43 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1376Free to All Mason Students

Recently, Jo Ann Henson, Mason’s business and economics librarian, gave a presentation to a group of graduate students in the School of Business about how to compile a better business plan using research from online databases available through the university library.

While this was a specific topic, the university library has a broad array of online resources that would be valuable for almost any business assignment. Spending a little time to understand what the library offers can pay huge dividends.

As the business and economics librarian, Henson is one of your best resources for quickly learning about the library. Because the number of databases is staggering, she can swiftly steer you toward those that are the most informative, depending on the subject matter.

For example, here is one of her favorite lists that she often share with students. It’s her top six database list for company research.

Mergent Online: A first stop for company research! This database has information on public and private companies. Mergent provides full company reports, the ability to view competitors of both private and public companies, and up to 15 years of key financial information. (For private companies click the “D&B Private Company Database” box directly above the search box.) Find your company here and your company research is complete!

Factiva: Search for company by name, then choose from company results in left panel. Factiva contains company information and data, as well as international business and news coverage from over 9,000 sources, all archived from 1984-present. Factiva is also where you can read today’s The Wall Street Journal; just type the paper’s name into the search bar.

Million Dollar Directory by Dun & Bradstreet: MDDI provides information on both private and public companies and their executives. It includes coverage of all businesses in the U.S. and Canada and business profiles on firms in over 200 countries worldwide. This database will also let you build company lists with geographic and industry criteria. (Try the MSA feature to limit results to Metro DC!)

Business Source Complete: Search for companies by name, and then find your company in the results panel to the right of the search results. This is a great source for all types of information on companies, including news, market and trade information, and articles.

LexisNexis Academic: To find company information, choose “Companies” on the right side of the page. Get a snapshot of a company with links to more detailed information. Results may include company information, mergers and acquisitions, news, top executives, SEC filings, legal information, and more.

Uniworld Online: This easy to use database includes two multinational business directories, American Firms Operating in Foreign Countries and Foreign Firms Operating in the United States. Search criteria include location to either zipcode or postal code level, number of employees, and industry. Uniworld provides information on headquarters, branches, subsidiaries, and affiliates of multinational firms. These directories cover 20,000 industries in over 200 countries.

If you have used the databases mentioned above, provide feedback. Also, if you have suggestions for databases that should be added to the list, let Jo Ann know.

As the business librarian, Jo Ann Henson instructs classes and provides research assistance to students and faculty. She has office hours in Enterprise 008 in the fall on Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. You can also contact her by email at jhenson3@gmu.edu.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/13/top-six-databases-company-research/feed/0Master of Business Administration Aids Entrepreneurs in Successhttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/06/master-business-administration-aids-entrepreneurs-success/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/06/master-business-administration-aids-entrepreneurs-success/#commentsMon, 06 Oct 2014 19:17:55 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1373Following your dreams and becoming an entrepreneur is an increasingly popular career path. To be a successful entrepreneur, you must have more than a great idea and passion; you must also have the business sense to market your products/services, balance your books, and manage people. Pursuing a master of business administration (MBA) offers professionals the foundational business skills and training needed to follow an entrepreneurial career path. According to the infographic below from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the master of business administration gives future entrepreneurs tools to:

1. Unlock Your ideas

44% of student entrepreneurs began their business while enrolled in the master of business administration program

2. Do What You Love

94% of graduating student entrepreneurs from the master of business administration program feel passionate about the business they’ve started

3. Gain Skills

91% of graduating student entrepreneurs from the master of business administration program say the MBA gave them the skills they needed to lead their company

4. Develop New Ideas

37% of graduating student entrepreneurs from the master of business administration program pursued new ideas in the products or services industries

5. Measure Success

41% of graduating student entrepreneurs from the master of business administration program say the MBA gave them the skills they needed to increase revenues in their new company

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/10/06/master-business-administration-aids-entrepreneurs-success/feed/0Who Should Get an MBA Degree?http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/09/29/get-mba-degree/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/09/29/get-mba-degree/#commentsMon, 29 Sep 2014 18:31:43 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1369Are you a superstar? Do you want to be? Are you stuck in your job? Do you need the skills to move on? Then maybe you should consider getting an MBA degree.

To succeed in today’s global marketplace, you need a diverse skill set, broader insights, and the confidence that comes from knowing you are truly prepared to assume a critical leadership role. MBA degree programs are designed for those looking to bring their careers to the next level and to hone their business skills.

If you’re looking to fast track your career growth and want to make a commitment to advancing your professional perspectives, the Mason MBA degree program is designed to give you an intensive and personal learning experience—and the chance to focus your energies on preparing for your future. The Mason MBA degree program educates future business leaders through world-class innovative academic programs and strategic partnerships.

MBA degree applicants are looking to develop leadership abilities to advance their careers. Those without strong work experience (four years) should consider holding off. A good MBA degree program provides students with the opportunities to learn from their classmates, so the more you can bring to the classroom, the better.

The Mason MBA degree prepares the next generation of world leaders through a rigorous, stimulating business and management curriculum based on a global perspective, industry demand, and leadership. This kind of broader business school focus has become essential for pioneers of businesses, governments, and public institutions worldwide.

If you are a more experienced manager interested in gaining advanced leadership and management skills, and have a great amount of professional work experience (at least 8 years), an Executive MBA degree program might be a good fit for you. Students in Mason’s EMBA program have an average of 17 years of professional experience with increasing levels of responsibility.

Whichever MBA degree program you are considering, keep in mind it is all about finding the right fit for you. Before embarking on an MBA degree program, you should have a clear idea of your career goals in order to gain the most out of the program. Plan your path to career success and then make it happen.

]]>http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/09/29/get-mba-degree/feed/0Business Schools in VA Have Better ROIhttp://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/09/22/business-schools-va-better-roi/
http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/2014/09/22/business-schools-va-better-roi/#commentsMon, 22 Sep 2014 14:16:13 +0000http://business.gmu.edu/blog/mba/?p=1366Prospective MBA students generally understand the importance of the bottom line, and this is often why they want to pursue a graduate business degree—to increase their bottom line. This is especially important when deciding between business schools. It is vital to not only consider convenience of location and class schedule but also to consider what your return on investment or ROI will be for each MBA program. For those evaluating business schools in VA, they can look at the added ROI that business schools in VA have based upon location and industry partnerships.

According to a recent Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) survey of MBA alumni, 94% felt their degree was personally rewarding, while 80% said they received a promotion faster than they expected. As for return on investment, surveyors responded that it took an average of 4 years to recoup full return on investment. The image below highlights this information.

It seems that today, even with a still struggling economy, demand for MBA graduates is strong. In another GMAC survey of 2012 graduates, 87% attributed their degree to faster career advancement, 92% to preparation for leadership positions, and 87% for increased earnings potential.

George Mason University has long touted its ROI for students, and recently, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), published data comparing the earnings of graduates from universities in Virginia. George Mason University’s graduates were shown earning relatively higher incomes than graduates from other commonwealth institutions and also low expenditures for students. Comparing total 4-year tuition, fees, room and board with median annual wages, shows George Mason University with below average cost and top wages.

This information from SCHEV gives further data to support the strength of business schools in VA. To learn more about the great opportunities that exist at business schools in Virginia, read a previous blog titled, “Business Schools in Virginia: An Easy Choice.”

Best Business Schools in VA: By the Rankings

There are many ranked business schools in Virginia, according to U.S. News & World Report.